Tag Archives: entrepreneur

4 common misconceptions in the Virtual Assistant industry

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As an online business owner, it can become overwhelming for business owners to find and research the right virtual assistant.

Once you have found the right fit, it’s always encouraging to ask in-depth questions, policies and what a VA will and will not do. Here is a link to the most FAQ questions that have already been asked about hiring your first virtual assistant.

But on the other hand, because you might be familiar with working from the 9-5 and transitioning, you might think that a virtual assistant will have the same mindset and work from the same platform that you were in.

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misconceptions in the virtual assistant industry

Here I have summarized some misconceptions of what a virtual assistant will not do:

  • Walk your dog
  • Be on call when your house is a mess
  • Paint your house
  • Be your babysitter

I sure hope I got some laughs on some of these things that a VA will not do. But on the serious side of things, I will elaborate some more on some misconceptions in the VA industry and this may spill over into other online industries.

A Virtual Assistant is an employee

So many times, you might think because you are outsourcing for a specific task that you can dictate what is expected and set the hours and payment for the person you are hiring.

This is not the case because a virtual assistant is a home-based, independent contractor, he/she normally sets their prices, their hours to complete a specific task, as well as manage his or her own insurance, as well as taxes.

A Virtual Assistant should provide a Resume’

Now that you are comfortable with finding a VA for your business, you are now at the next stage for hiring and would want a VA to provide his/her Resume.

Remember that because a VA is an independent contractor that the best sorts of reference that a VA will and should always provide are their testimonials from past clients or references.

A Virtual Assistant is a jack-of-all-trades

You have finalized working with a VA and you have explained the tasks that you will need him/her to complete, you have suddenly realized that because your VA is so wonderful they can do this additional task.

There are many VA’s who specialize in many industries, some might be even happy to learn and complete this task for you, but, if not, chances are that a VA will know someone who can complete that task for you.

Please do not ask your VA to do such a task and then penalize him/her with words such as “if you can do this, I will give you additional money” or “testimonial” while this might be great, some VA’s might not specialize in the task that you have outlined so it’s good to find another VA who has the knowledge and expertise of the task that you are outsourcing.

A Virtual Assistant will work on your hours

Although this might be somewhat true in some cases. A virtual assistant might work hourly, set packages and even on retainers, but it’s always best practice to work with those VA’s who can accommodate with working on your schedule.

In some instances, a virtual assistant will set the timeframe for a task to be completed and when to deliver such a task to you.

Now that you have seen some of the misconceptions about the virtual assistant industry, this might be happening in your industry. Feel free to comment on some misconceptions in your industry.

It was nice of you to stop by.

Until then, happy hiring, and best wishes with your business.

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Photo Credit: Haute Stock

 

 

 

Style your workspace the Right Way

How are you from the last time you read my blog?

If you are new, welcome to my blog!

Today’s post is all about styling and creating your workspace to reflect your brand so that when you are at work your personal touches will be reflected in your workspace and will help you to stimulate your creative juices.

What am I referring to? I will let Gabrielle talk some more about this.

Hello there, you beautiful and talented fashionista, you! Spring fashion is underway and I’m sure you’ve already been working on securing those new season staples.

While you’re checking out the newest trends for the season, don’t forget about getting things updated in that all-too-important workspace of yours. Yes, you read that right. Your workspace: the office, the studio, that little corner of your dining room or kitchen.

I know you’re a fashion lover, but I also know that you’re a budding boss lady putting in a lot of work to build and grow your business. You spend some serious time in that work area, so you should make it feel comforting in some way.

Getting your work environment to match your personality is just as important as throwing on your signature-style dress and your favorite MAC lipstick and liner. I’ve got a few ways to help you upgrade and breathe easier in your workspace.

Get colorful with your workspace!

Say, “No,” to white/beige walls and that solitary peace of art of the beach that you picked up at Home Goods.

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style your workspace

Your office, whether you expect visitors or not, is another part of your brand.

It’s just as important as your logo, your business card or your website, not to mention is another representation of your personality.

Paint goes a long way to upgrading your surroundings and adding some of “you” in the space. If you’re not into a lot of colors, that’s ok too. There are plenty of patterns out there that you could utilize to liven up the bare walls.

Get “colorful” by adding decals, wallpaper or using paint techniques to add pattern and a sense of depth.

Create your workspace with a visual business plan.

As your brand shows the world what your business is about, your business plan keeps you focused on where you’re going for yourself and any investors involved in your business. I’m sure as a business owner boss lady you’ve spent plenty of time, money, or both, on creating and finalizing your perfect business plan.

Now take that a step further and make it a part of your workspace décor. Create a collage of ideas, a poster of a presentation, or an infographic that you can frame and stick on the wall.

Worried about visitors being able to get a glimpse of your plans before you’re ready to roll them out? No problem. Get a double-sided frame and put your favourite quote on a brand-centered stock photo. Flip the frame over whenever you host a meeting.

Add your favourite knick-knacks to desks, walls, and shelving.

I’ve mentioned brand a lot in this post, and here’s another thing you have to remember: You are your brand. You are the face of your business. So what does that mean for your office space? It means that anyone should be able to enter your office and see, well, YOU.

Adding décor pieces is one of the easiest ways to add your personal touches, and it may not cost you anything at all if you have these items already laying around.

If you like collecting spring globes, have a spring globe or two, or ten. Does having family photos invigorate and encourage you? Clear a space on one wall and leave it open just for your favorite memories? Are you just a lover of office supplies? Create “seasons” with all your office décor and switch things up now and then.

Having personal touches in your workspace helps to stimulate your creative juices. Some business owners are laser focused on building a business. That’s great and commendable, but working in an environment that is properly put together adds value to your working experience.

Seriously, you are an awesome woman with an awesome personality and sick style. Show that personality when you’re working, too. You and your business are not two separate entities, and it’s time we stopped treating them like they are. Get personal and see how your entire outlook on work changes with the upgrades to your atmosphere.

 

interior designer shows you how to create and style your workspaceBio: Gabrielle Singletary is an interior designer specialising in the residential, hospitality and event design sectors. Over the last four years, she has consulted on a number of design and décor projects, including small business offices. In addition to her business services, Gabrielle has chosen to take the knowledge she has and provide tips and guides to creating a more personal visual atmosphere.

It was nice of you to stop by.

Remember, if you need help, you can ask Juli by clicking here

Until then, happy hiring, and best wishes with your business.

Don’t forget to check the sidebar and footer of this website for awesome resources!

Photo Credit: Haute Stock